§ Mr. Wintertonasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how many applications have been received by his Department from the Cheshire Education Authority for the closure of rural infant and primary schools since June 1970; how many have been granted; how many are under consideration; and if he will specify the schools concerned.
§ Mr. ArmstrongSince June 1970 the Cheshire Education Authority has made proposals under Section 13(3) of the Education Act 1944, as amended, for the closure of 29 rural primary schools.
The following table shows which of these proposals (a) have been approved under Section 13(4) of the Act; (b) have been rejected; (c) are at present under consideration; and (d) are the subject of notices which have not yet expired.